How to Communicate Your Child’s Needs In An Inclusion Classroom

Entering an inclusion classroom can feel stressful. You may be wondering how to communicate with your child’s peers and their parents about your child’s needs. Here are five (or six) actionable steps you can take to communicate effectively with your child’s class.

STEP 1: ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR FEARS

When my son entered kindergarten, I felt nervous. I wondered: How will his first day go? Will he separate well from me? Will he like his teacher?Will he be accepted?Will he have meltdowns?Will he feel excluded?

Each of these questions was rooted in fear of the unknown. This feeling is normal, especially when you have a special needs child. Identify your fears, then take the next steps to conquer them.

STEP 2: HAVE EMPATHY

Have empathy for yourself as you process your fears. Then, extend that kindness and empathy to others around you. Focus on the commonalities between you, rather than what sets you apart, and create an open dialog that focuses on mutual support.

STEP 3: COMMUNICATE TO LISTEN

Communication involves more than speaking. In order to communicate your child’s needs to fellow parents and peers effectively, you first must be a good listener. Pause to think about their concerns. Acknowledge their questions and listen when they speak. Stephen Covey astutely said: “Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.” Listen with the intent to understand and, in turn, fellow parents will be more likely to listen and understand your child’s needs in an open and collaborative way.

Hi! I'm Katie, a special needs mom of three dedicated to helping other special needs families along their journeys. I am passionate about fostering positive communication and connection, and the peaceful power of empathy.